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What does a Fire Investigator do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A fire investigator is responsible for determining the origin and cause of fires. They collect evidence, interview witnesses, and review building plans to determine the point of origin and how the fire spread. Fire investigators also work with insurance companies to determine the cause of fires for insurance purposes.

Fire Investigator job duties include:

  • Investigate the origin and cause of fires
  • Determine whether a fire is accidental, incendiary, or natural
  • Collect evidence at fire scenes
  • Interview witnesses
  • Prepare detailed reports
  • Present findings to law enforcement, insurance companies, and attorneys
  • Testify in court as an expert witness
  • Work with fire prevention officials to develop fire safety programs
  • Inspect buildings for fire code violations
  • Investigate explosions

Fire Investigator Job Requirements

Most fire investigators have at least a high school diploma, although some have a college degree in fire science or a related field. Many agencies require certification as a Fire Investigator through the National Association of Fire Investigators or a similar organization. Experience as a firefighter or law enforcement officer is often helpful in becoming a fire investigator.

Fire Investigator Skills

  • Fire
  • Investigation
  • Arson
  • Evidence
  • Fire Science
  • Chemistry
  • Physics
  • Mathematics
  • Biology
  • Engineering
  • Computer Science

Related: Top Fire Investigator Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Fire Investigator

A fire investigator is an individual who is responsible for determining the origin and cause of fires. A fire investigator must have a keen understanding of fire behavior, as well as an investigative mind.

There are a few steps that one must take in order to become a fire investigator. Firstly, it is important to obtain a degree in fire science or a related field. Secondly, one must gain experience working with fire departments or in the insurance industry. Finally, it is recommended that one becomes certified through the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

Once you have obtained the necessary education and experience, you will be able to begin working as a fire investigator. Your job will be to determine the origin and cause of fires. In order to do this, you will need to have a keen understanding of fire behavior. You will also need to be able to interview witnesses and gather evidence. Once you have collected all of the evidence, you will need to analyze it in order to reach a conclusion about the fire’s origin and cause.

Related: Fire Investigator Resume Example

Related: Fire Investigator Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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